The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, respect and responsiveness in its daily interactions with members of the public.
A statement signed by the command public relations officer DSP Timfon John said the commitment was the central message at the Command’s celebration of this year’s Customer Service Week, held at the Command Headquarters, Uyo.
Addressing officers and stakeholders at the event, the Commissioner emphasized that, within the Nigeria Police Force, public service is inseparable from the core responsibility of maintaining law and order. He noted that every interaction whether receiving a complaint, responding to a distress call or providing assistance has a direct impact on public confidence in the Police.
He therefore charged all officers and personnel to be courteous, patient, impartial and prompt in the discharge of their duties, urging them to listen attentively, explain their actions clearly and treat every member of the public with dignity, irrespective of status or background.
The Commissioner also used the occasion to address critical security concerns in the State and called for a collaborative approach involving the Police, Government, traditional and community leaders, parents and all responsible citizens.
On cybercrime, the Commissioner urged members of the public, particularly youths, to use digital platforms responsibly, protect their personal information and verify information before sharing it. Victims of online fraud were encouraged to preserve relevant evidence and report incidents promptly to the Police.
While warning against mob action and jungle justice, CP Azare reiterated that no allegation justifies violence against a suspect. He noted that such actions can lead to loss of lives, compromise investigations and expose perpetrators to criminal prosecution. Citizens were therefore urged to report suspected crimes and allow the Police and the courts to handle such matters in accordance with the law.
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The Commissioner, while acknowledging the importance of culture and cultural activities, cautioned that cultural practices must not be used as a cover for intimidation, assault, extortion or disruption of public peace. He stressed that organizers have a responsibility to ensure that their activities remain peaceful and lawful.
Speaking on the role of the youth, CP Azare described young people as a vital part of the future of Akwa Ibom State and encouraged them to shun violence, cultism and thuggery. He called on parents, educators and community leaders to provide guidance, mentorship and constructive opportunities for young people.
On the protection of critical infrastructure, the Commissioner described the destruction and vandalism of public assets as a threat to the wellbeing of the entire society. He therefore urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the Police.
The Commissioner also appealed to political leaders and their supporters to act responsibly, emphasizing that political differences must never become an excuse for threats, violence or destruction of property. He urged all stakeholders to ensure that political activities are conducted peacefully and in strict compliance with the law.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), National Youth Council of Nigeria (Akwa Ibom Chapter), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, among others.
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The Commissioner reassured the people of Akwa Ibom State that the Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property and enforcing the law impartially. He appreciated members of the public for their continued cooperation, support and timely provision of information, while urging them to maintain open communication with the Police and promptly report emergencies and suspicious activities through the appropriate channels.
As the Customer Service Week is celebrated, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command renews its commitment to working hand-in-hand with the people to build a safer, more peacefuland law-abiding State.
